Showing films outdoors: everything you need to know

With the approach of the summer season, more and more events are being organized to entertain the community. Between concerts, patron saint festivals and sporting events, in this article we will delve into how to screen films outdoors.

It has happened to everyone, at least once, to attend the public screening of a film: the open-air cinema offers a great experience and represents a unique way of enjoying cinema that combines the magic of the big screen with evocative atmospheres and settings, allowing everyone to get closer to the world of cinema.

Projecting a film outdoors: everything you need to know

Screening a film outdoors is an experience that combines the pleasure of cinema with the charm of the outdoor environment. Whether it’s an evening with friends, a community event or a special celebration, the open-air cinema offers a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

For its organization it is important to consider several factors: the choice of location, the necessary equipment, the technical aspects and the authorizations to be requested. With good organization, an outdoor movie night can turn into an unforgettable event for everyone in attendance.

What events can be organized?

Whether you are immersed in nature or in urban settings, outdoor screenings can take the form of different types of events:

• Cinema under the stars
• Films in the square
• Cineforum
• Baby cinema evenings
• Drive-in

How to legally screen a movie outdoors

Legally showing a film outdoors requires compliance with certain regulations and obtaining the necessary authorizations.

• Acquisition of screening rights: To screen a film publicly, it is imperative to obtain a license for the public performance of the work from the film’s rights holders. These can be film distributors, production companies or specialized realities, as in MPLC Hong Kong. Failure to acquire these licenses will result in a civil and criminal offense, as well as the immediate interruption or cancellation of the event.
• Entertainment License: If a public screening is held, a permit must be obtained from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department. A public entertainment venue refers to a place used for hosting or conducting entertainment activities listed in Schedule 1 of the Places of Public Entertainment Ordinance (Cap. 172), where the public can enter (whether for a fee or not). Anyone operating or using a public entertainment venue must apply for a license.
• Technical certifications: check that the equipment used, such as projectors and audio systems, complies with safety regulations. It is also helpful to have a contingency plan in case of bad weather or other unforeseen events.
• Advertising and communication: if the event is open to the public, make sure that all advertising material complies with current regulations, avoiding unauthorized use of images or copyrighted content.

By following these steps, you can organize an outdoor movie screening legally, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.

How to acquire the rights for an outdoor film screening?

According to the Hong Kong Copyright Ordinance, any film screening in a non-domestic environment requires the following authorization:

Film Authorization: Issued by the film producer or distributor, permitting the public screening of the film in a non-domestic setting.

MPLC support

MPLC is the international body that issues authorization for the public performance of audiovisual works. It provides film licenses for the organization of public screenings, guaranteeing organizers a catalog of over 20,000 works from over 850 film distributions.

Thanks to the film license, it is possible to organize screenings in compliance with copyright law and ensure that the creators of the content receive the right remuneration for the use of their works.

Event License: the solution for your outdoor cinema

Whether it’s a Drive-in, park screening, an event in the square or screenings on the beach comfortably seated on the sand, MPLC supports you in choosing the most captivating film to entertain your audience.

The “Event License” is the authorization required for the individual screening, which allows you to organize an event:

• Open to the public: you can choose whether to invite the entire citizenry or a smaller group of participants
• Advertised externally: you can choose whether to promote your event through posters, external advertising or through your social networks
• Free or paid admission: you can choose whether to provide free admission, or a ticket to receive a fee for viewing the film.

The catalog of titles is extensive, diversified and constantly updated, to appeal to all different audience types.

What you risk without a license

Unauthorized screening of copyright-protected works constitutes audiovisual piracy and may result in civil and criminal penalties under the Hong Kong Copyright Ordinance:

• Copyright owners hold exclusive rights to publicly perform and communicate their works;
• Unauthorized public reproduction or communication of films may lead to fines or legal liability;
• Unauthorized promotion of free screening events may harm rights holders legitimately engaged in film screening activities.

Organize your event with MPLC

If you’re planning an event that involves watching cinematic works, be sure to get your license in advance.

MPLC consultants help you quickly check if a film is available. You can also give them a theme, age group, or occasion, and they’ll send you tailored suggestions and alternatives. We suggest that you always contact us in advance in order to define every detail of your event and respect the necessary deadlines for the progress of the paperwork.

To get more information about the MPLC License, you can fill out the contact form or call +852 3596 5857.